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Is there flexible PEX pipe?

PEX is the most flexible plumbing pipe available. It can be bent around most corners without a coupling or fitting. For example, 3/8” pipe may be bent to a 4” radius and 1/2” pipe to a 5” radius. Most plumbing leaks and system failures occur at joints in fittings.

Which PEX is most flexible?

PEX-A
PEX-A is the most flexible of all PEX tubing types, has little or no coil memory and gives installer an ability to repair kinks with a heat gun. It has been in use for over 50 years (which is longer than other types) with few publicly known issues (3), which is a good indicator of reliability.

Is it OK to bend PEX pipe?

PEX tubing can be bent slightly to accommodate curves. But do not bend the tubing tighter than a radius that’s six times the size of the tube. For example, a 1/2-inch tube can have a three inch bend radius. All 90-degree turns should have bend supports.

Can you bend 1/2 inch PEX pipe?

PEX Bend Support Bend supports generally bring the PEX to its tightest allowable 90-degree turn without folding or crimping. Turn radii differ according to PEX pipe diameter. For 1/2-inch PEX pipe, the tightest radius is usually 5 inches.

Is PEX pipe banned in California?

PEX was banned in California due to some concerns about toxic materials leaking through the pipe and into water. Through various national laboratory tests, PEX has proven to be completely safe and durable. It is now legal in California and even included in principal plumbing codes.

What happens if PEX gets kinked?

PEX can be easily bent by hand, or with the use of approved bend supports to a radius as small as five times the tubing’s outer diameter. But you want to avoid kinking the tubing. A kink impedes the flow of water and creates a weak spot in the tubing, so it must be fixed.

Is it better to bend PEX or elbow?

Use PEX bend supports instead of elbows. While these, unlike elbow fittings, cannot provide a sharp turn, they are suitable for most frame homes and will provide a certain degree of protection for the pipe from rigid/abrasive stud edges.